Congress aims to replicate southern-Odisha success model across state

The Congress party, invigorated by its recent electoral triumphs in southern Odisha, is poised to extend its strategic blueprint across the entire state.  The party had clinched 10 legislative assembly seats in the 2024 elections, marking a significant win in the region.

Strategic Discussions at Congress Bhawan

In a meeting held at the Congress Bhawan in Odisha, key party figures including Ajay Kumar Lallu, who is in charge of the party in the state, MP Saptagiri Ulaka, and the Congress Legislative Party leader Ramachandra Kadam among others gathered to deliberate on the successful strategy.

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“It is time to unite under the new PCC team and officials, as the Congress has good prospects in Odisha. We hope that all the leaders of the party will work hard at the grassroots level so that we will be in a good position to form government. Our effort will be to ensure that we send more MLAs to the assembly like we have done from southern Odisha,” said MP Saptagiri Ulaka.

According to Ulaka, the party leaders will work unitedly under the leadership of the new PCC president.

Discussions focused on the mobilisation of grassroots support and the effective targeting of key voter issues, which were integral to their recent success. This strategic approach is now set to be implemented across Odisha, with the aim of replicating the party's victories in more constituencies.

Party officials and district presidents exchanged insights during these sessions, showcasing a committed effort to rejuvenate the party's position and influence throughout the state.

Future Prospects and Challenges

While the plan to extend this strategy holds promise, the party acknowledges challenges, including addressing local issues distinct to different parts of Odisha and adjusting their strategy to suit varied socio-political landscapes. The focus will remain on unity and concerted efforts as the Congress party attempts to bolster its presence and connect with voters throughout Odisha.

“Southern Odisha result will be implemented in different parts of the state and the party will fight together. Our aim is to strengthen organisation and the party will do good in 2029 elections,” said senior Congress leader, Ramchandra Kadam.

Odisha & 2024 General Elections

It is pertinent to mention here that 2024 Odisha elections marked a tectonic political shift as BJP secured its first-ever majority in both parliamentary and assembly elections. While BJP won 20/21 Lok Sabha seats (45% vote share), it simultaneously gained 78/147 assembly seats – ending former CM Naveen Patnaik's 24-year reign.

Political analysts attribute BJP's success to PM Narendra Modi's 'Double Engine' narrative amplified through mega rallies, coupled with anti-BJD sentiment.